1996

Edna Klaassen of Clear Lake was the first winner of the “NIACC Distinguished Alumni Award.” She is a 1950 graduate of Mason City Junior College and has been recognized by the Governor, the Lions, and many others for her work helping the community, as well as providing needed supplies to Native Americans in South Dakota.

Paula Statman, Class of 1973

Mason City native Paula Statman is a 1971 graduate of Mason City High School. After receiving her Associate in Arts degree from NIACC in 1973, Paula went on to earn a bachelor’s degree in education and a master’s degree in social work. A psychotherapist and family life educator, she is the founder of the KidWISE Institute of Oakland, California, which trains parents, teachers and others who work with children. Paula is also a licensed clinical social worker. In 1995, she received the Parent’s Choice Award for her book “On the Safe Side: Teach Your Child to Be Safe, Strong and Street Smart.”